Summer camps grow with City School District collaboration; Record year for Youth Employment, New outdoor fun for seniors 

This summer is set to be vibrant and bustling with activity for youth, seniors and families with expanded services and programming from the Department of Parks and Recreation. During the City Council meeting on June 13, Commissioner Vin Parise detailed the department’s ongoing successes and new initiatives aligned with the City Manager’s 2023 workplan goals: from established programs and seasonal events to maintenance and upgrades, the department is excited to offer opportunities for all. 

Highlights include:

• Expanded Summer Camps In collaboration with the City School District, the City will introduce the pilot program “Summer Stars Exploration” at Ward and Jefferson Elementary Day Camps, expanding services to an additional 200 children, providing them with enriching experiences. The Kiddie Camp for children ages 3-5 will now accommodate 25%  more campers with the addition of a new classroom.
• New outdoor activities for Seniors To enhance social and recreational opportunities for seniors, the department will feature monthly events at a variety of venues, including a Field Day in June, Pool Party in July, Beach Party in August and Senior Bash in September, creating a vibrant and engaging environment for this valuable population.
• Record- breaking Summer Youth Employment opportunities The Youth Bureau received an overwhelming response for the Summer Youth Employment program, and as a result, 513 youth between the ages 14-24 will be placed at worksites around the City where they will gain valuable skills and professional training. Additionally, the City School District Foundation students with special needs will have a summer employment option through the new “Access Equestrian” pilot program.

 “We could not be more proud of the partnerships and new initiatives that Summer 2023 holds in the coming months,” said Commissioner Parise.

“This multi-faceted department- which includes Parks, Recreation, Marina, Youth and Senior services- provides valuable programming for all ages and abilities, and we are grateful for the  additional support an expanded partnership with the City School District brings. The new array of exciting activities and initiatives, in conjunction with our ongoing events, promises to make Summer 2023 a memorable season,” said City Manager Kathleen Gill. 

Superintendent Jonathan Raymond said, “All kids need and deserve access to really good after school and summer programs that keep them learning and keep them safe. But no one can make this happen alone. The City School District and the City of New Rochelle are joining forces to combine our human and financial resources to make this vision a reality for the kids and families of New Rochelle. We are one New Rochelle!"

Upcoming summer recreation programs include tennis and pickleball at the Pinebrook Tennis Center, “Go Skateboard Day” at the Sidney E. Frank Skate Park, “Summer Recess” Monday night open play at Fosina Field, “Summer Fun Fridays” in July and August at City Park featuring Splash Day bounce house and waterslide, Bubble Bus Party, and Glow in the Dark fun! And, mark your calendars for the Spark the Sound Fireworks extravaganza on Tuesday July 4!

For more information visit www.newrochelleny.com/Parks.